Hertfordshire has plenty to send a shiver down your spine, and here, Visit Herts picks out the events not to miss – and the places to stay to sleep off the effects.
A chill is entering the air, people old and young gather round to hear haunting stories, and pumpkins are making their way into every window and hot drink – yes, Spooky Season has arrived. And where better to spend it than in Hertfordshire, where ghosts have been said to walk the streets and those fiery reds have never looked better? Here are some of our favourite places to visit and spend the night that will make for a scarily good autumnal break right here on our doorstep.
What To Do
St Albans Cathedral
With its Gothic architecture and fantastic history, St Albans Cathedral is a must-visit this time of year. Outlined by dramatic skies, you’ll be amazed as you walk up the hill and are faced with a cathedral that dates back centuries. At the start of the month, get into the spirit as you experience the Abbey by Night. You’ll be greeted with a glass of wine by candlelight and told the stories of those who once called the cathedral their home – the perfect way to kick off the season. Then, on Halloween itself, settle in for a screening of the iconic Nosferatu or, for something a little lighter, the family friendly Night at the Museum!
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter
Take the kids over to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, for the return of the popular Dark Arts and step into the iconic sets from the beloved film series. From wandering the Great Hall and witnessing over 100 pumpkins floating above a spooky feast, to discovering the symbol of Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters on your hunt for the Dark Mark. Cast those spells and you’re ready for a magical day out.
Natural History Museum: Tring
The natural world holds many mysteries in its grasp, and they’re coming out of the shadows for you to discover this year at the Natural History Museum in Tring. In the week of half term, you can spend hours taking in the magnificent displays of the museum, from slithering snakes to beautiful bears. For that ultimate Halloween celebration, don your best fancy dress, discover some spooky specimens, and take on the haunted trail at their Museum by Torchlight.
Ashridge House
Opulence, drama, and mystery await at Ashridge House. As you step onto the grounds of this charming estate, you’ll leave behind the world you know and begin the saga to solve a thrilling whodunnit. Set over a truly unforgettable weekend, you’ll become intertwined with the other guests (or should we say suspects?), all on the mission to tell their own version of the tale, while getting to the bottom of the ghastly goings-on. Discuss theories over breakfast, let the real stories come out in the evening parties, and bring your ideas to the police as the weekend comes to a close – who will be crowned victor?
St Albans Tour Guides – Ghost Walks
The rich and deep history of St Albans always leaves us astounded and curious to learn more, especially when there’s a spook factor involved. Go on a hauntingly historic exploration of the city in their guided Ghosts and Ghouls tour and see for yourself just how mysterious the place really is. Running throughout October, you can delve deep into the strange events that have gone on here and get to know the well-known phantoms of the town. Be warned, you might just realise that we’re not alone after all…
Where to Stay
Bethnal & Bec Luxury Stays
The boutique hideaways of Bethnal and Bec in rural Herts are perfect for those seeking a countryside escape, but want to indulge in some luxury. Providing the perfect spot for those cosy nights settled under the stars, their chic, award winning retreats boast private hot tubs, sumptuous linens in king sized beds, and stocked pantries. It’s adult only for a quiet retreat and they have dog-friendly options too.
Aubrey Park Hotel
Situated peacefully between St Albans and the old town of Hemel Hempstead, you will find the welcoming Aubrey Park Hotel. With freshly made beds ready to get tucked into, a brasserie with fantastic food and drink options to warm your bellies, and rural surroundings perfect for those afternoon walks, we could certainly see ourselves spending a few restful nights here.
Hanbury Manor
Located on 200 sprawling acres of immaculately landscaped grounds in the charming town of Ware, this stately Jacobean-style hotel has got the best snapshot of those autumnal colours that we know and love. Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club shows unmatched grandeur, a wealth of 5-star amenities and superb placement only 25 miles from London. What’s more, until the end of the year, you can make the most of their Kids Stay & Eat free offer – connect with the whole family, at no extra cost!
Home Farm Glamping
Nights under the stars, campfire cooking, and the sounds of the beautiful outdoors – it doesn’t get much more autumnal than this. Home Farm Glamping is the place to go this season for all your luxury camping needs, right in the heart of Hertfordshire. Spend the night in a beautiful bell tent, snuggled up and cosy as you take a detox from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Tewinbury Farm Hotel
Tewinbury Farm, once a rustic farm and now a thriving 700-acre estate, boasts a whole host of amazing entertainment, accommodation, and (lucky for our tastebuds) indoor and outdoor dining to sample those delicious local flavours. With events over the season, like the Kids Halloween Disco and their Murder Mystery Night, you’re in for no tricks and all treats. Be sure to stay a little longer to catch one of their live events, or even spend the night in their dreamy accommodation, with your belly full and your mind happy.
